I am looking at buying a Matrix but I am worried about climbing mountain passes here in Colorado. My current 4 cylinder 4Runner bogs down to 45-50MPH on some of the steeper inclines on I-70 and it is very frustrating getting passed my semis and GEO Metros. Does anybody out there have any real life experience driving up steep highways and if so can it maintain Interstate speeds (75-80MPH). One last thing: can the Matrix fit a couple of Mountain bikes with the back seats down? Thanks for the info.
I own a base Matrix with manual transmission. I have no problems with acceleration and passing. In fact, I tried the manual and the automatic, and the manual beats the automatic (I guess no surprise there). I just passed the 10000 km mark. No problems or concerns to report.
Although not as high as the mountains out west, I climb the Blue Ridge Mountains every weekend and my XRS does great. I downshift to 5th gear.
I haven't tried to fit bikes but be careful about scratching the plastic in the back. They will be coming out with a rubber cargo mat if they haven't already and that will help.
Shifting the car out of overdrive will not help acceleration, like everyone else has said.
I currently have a 180hp 1.8T Jetta automatic, and I test drove the Matrix for the heck of it, a couple months ago. It was an XR automatic (no XRS models available to test back then). It was pitifully slow to me, alot more so than my Jetta is. I was surprised how slow the car was. It felt like a Celica, but a little less powerful. It was a pretty nice ride though.
if your 4-cylinder 4Runner is from the 80's, it weighs like 3700 pounds, and if it is from the 90's, it weighs more than 4000. By comparison, the matrix weighs less than 3000 unless you are getting AWD.
Also, the matrix horsepower is actually higher than the 80's and early 90's 4Runner 4-cylinder, and only about 10% lower hp than the '96 on.
2014 Mini Cooper (stick shift of course), 2016 Camry hybrid, 2009 Outback Sport 5-spd (keeping the stick alive)
Yes, some of us purchased the 180 hp XRS. I did it because I was afraid the other model would be underpowered. My decision was also based on the extra options you get with the XRS. I have been happy.
I am getting a 5 speed XR, Cosmic Blue, with Nav and Moonroof (factory ordered). I only did a test drive in an automatic. I know the manual is a different configuration than other cars - up higher and everyone seems to like that. However, I am only 5'3" and was wondering if the different position is going to be problem for someone with - presumably - shorter arms. I'd love to hear more info about the shifting mechanism.
And why I chose my car: I do animal rescue, so I'm thrilled *not* to have carpet in the cargo area. I'll deal with slip and slide with a gripper mat where needed. My current car has cat pee smells in the carpet, so I hate carpet - in cars or my house!
I also really like the flat layout of the cargo area, versus the slight raised portions in the Mazda Protege5, and that the Matrix front seat folds down. And rear cup holders for my 8 yr old daughter are very important to her.
My profile would be one posted earlier in this forum - a car for errand running, cargo hauling, plus kid and pet friendly. I'm not a youngster, so the sounds and speed mean nothing to me, although the moonroof and Nav system are real important. I map everything on the computer, and will use it in my car as well. Dear husband is one who hates to ask directions, so this will help him too! ;-)
I sign the papers tomorrow...I'll be happy to have the car by Christmas.
Has anyone experienced any "strange", intermittant probs, like drift/pull to the left or right, unresolved by alignments, or excessive paint chips yet???
CJLOFTUS.. have you tried "OUT" oder remover and/or a steam cleaner, like a Little Green machine???
I am interested in a Toyota Matrix XRS in either Lunar Mist or Indigo Ink. I received my September issue of Car and Driver and it states that the XRS has been discontinued. The letter states:
Interested in a Toyota Matrix XRS. I went to my local dealer to be told the XRS has been discontinued. A second dealer confirmed it. This must be the single stupidest move Toyota could have made. If I were to purchase a Matrix XR model and tack on all the extras, it would still cost me as much as, or even more than, the XRS, and I'd have 50 less horsepower and no four-wheel disc brakes. Please warn others.
Do you think that this is true or this person might have misunderstood a salesman at both dealerships?
I don't believe Toyota will discontinue the XRS, at this time. However, I agree with most automotive reviews that the XRS is a waste of money and offers no real benefits (other than bragging rights... "I own a 180 HP vehicle"). The additional HP doesn't kick in until over 6,000 rpm's. Therefore unless you continually have your foot to the floor and like to wear earplugs it is not needed. In my opinion it can also encourage careless driving. Mind you with a name like "crashnburn2" the XRS may be right for you.
under the sun, from odor neutralizers, stain removers, vinegar, baking soda, scrubbing with liquid detergent, Fabreeze, etc. Everything helps for awhile, but then those hot days hit and wheeeeew... The dealership said the seat would have to be replaced (front driver) to really make it go away. But I'll look for "Out" - pet store? Target? Doubt I'll buy a steam machine though. I do want to sell my car before getting my Matrix - will be honest about it, but would like it not to be noticeable when I do sell.
I have driven a 5-speed base Matrix and decided against it based purely on the driving position. I'm short like you, only 5'6". In order for me to comfortably reach the up in the air and far away shifter, I had to sit uncomfortably close to the steering wheel and my legs ended up getting scrunched up in the footwell (my knees were also quite close to the dash). It was very unnatural feeling and I couldn't get comfortable. I highly suggest you try it out before signing the papers. Everything else about the Matrix is great, but they really should have thought out the driving position better. The Aerio SX was much more comfortable and I was able to sit far enough away from the steering wheel and pedals. Sitting further away from the dash and steering wheel also lended a more open airy feeling to the interior.
I'm 5'2 and I am comfortable driving the Matrix. It was an adjustment at first but I got used to it. The stiff shifter takes some getting used to but it eventually gets more loose.
BTW I don't think the XRS is a waste of money. If you take an XR and add a bunch of options it comes out almost the same price as the XRS so why not go for the bigger engine?
In defense of the XRS I would like to say there are many benefits to owning an XRS over the XR. If you are comparing the 5spd XR to the XRS 6spd for example you will see a very noticable gain in performance with the extra gear...and you do NOT have to be over 6000rpm. Take an XR and a XRS in a drag race and shift both at a mere 4000 rpm and the XRS will kick [non-permissible content removed] every time...why...the extra gear keeps the rpms and momentum up...it is simply physics. Shift from 3th to 4th in the XRS @ 4000 rpm only drops the RPMS by 700...Can anyone tell me what the drop is in the XR? Don't get me wrong, I am not a drag racer by any means, but this example is relative to day to day driving.
By the way the XRS is not discontinued...In fact my dealer told me the demand is still very high for them...
Throw in extras like 4 wheel discs brakes, 4 wheel ABS, 17" vs 16" wheels, a security system, 110 volt on the dash, upgraded stereo, full aero package, driving lights, etc. etc. and I (and countless others) feel the XRS is well worth the couple of extra bucks a month...it does cost more...but it also delivers more. The XRS with the Celica GTS drivetrain also retails for almost $10,000 less than the Celica GTS. When I tell people how the vehicle retails @ $25k (canadian), they are very impresssed. Many have guessed well over $30k (canadian) for that much performance in such a versatile wrapper AND with a Toyota name on it. I have no regrets whatsoever in getting the XRS over the XR.
My wife drives my XRS and she is 5'2" tall..she likes the driving position better than the Rav4 we used to have and claims the seats are more comfortable for her. One of the tests I read about the Matrix claims the steering wheel is too close to the dash to be comfortable but she does not have a problem with that at all.
Interesting post about the trans difference, I hope someone posts with the XR sift drop. It makes some sense, as the engines are the same under 6000 rpm.
We have an XR. My wife is 5' 1" and I'm 6' 3" and have room to spare.. We both fit just fine with the right adjustments. I think Toyota did a fantastic job of accomodating such a wide range of people sizes..
Now, that low contrast odometer and temp display, that's another matter..!!
Hmm..Maybe I ran into more of a problem because my body is more leg then torso (I'm also a man). If I had been able to back the seat up some to reduce the closed-in feeling and free up leg space, the Matrix would have worked fine. But the far away shifter and steering wheel necessitated me to sit too close to find comfort in my legs. The seats themselves weren't bad comfort-wise. The base Matrix doesn't have a height adjustable seat (at least, I don't think it did) so that may have affected it too.
Ingtonge18: The XR has a height adjustable seat, which is what we bought for that reason due to the big difference in height between my wife and I. It is manually adjustable however, and isn't something I'd want to do 2 or 3 times per day. An optional power seat would be nice, but....
I just got my Matrix and it has the 6 disc changer. Is there anyone with the cd/cassette combo in the Phoenix are that would be interested in an upgrade? I would pay for the swap.
I learned how to solve an annoying problem with the Matrix today that was embarassingly simple! Do you recall several posts talking about the sunvisor hitting the rearview mirror and that it is a bad design? Well...It is in fact not a bad design but simply out of adjustment. The mirror has 2 ball joints on it which will allow you to 'centre' the mirror between the 2 sunvisors and still have correct angle for the view rearward. Adjust it around a bit and voila...problem solved! I read this in another group and couldn't believe I had not tried this myself. Of course it should have set properly at the factory or caught in the PDI process...but it takes like 3 seconds to fix!
Dose anyone know the offset size and the weight of 16" and 17" wheel from Matrix? I plan to get the XRS on this weekend. I heard some people say that the XRS with auto making more noise than the 6 speeds. Is that real?
The bolt pattern on the 16" and 17" is 5 x 100. The offset is 35 on the 16" but I am not sure about the 17". Got to http://www.tirerack.com and select the Matrix XRS, choose your color, and it will give you all of the available choices in sizes 16" - 19". Really neat tool.
I have never heard of a lot of noise in the automatic xrs. I have a 6spd XRS. Good luck with your purchase of an XRS...let us know how that goes...
I know the VW comes with 3 years free oil changed. Dose Toyota has this offer? I got the deal by the dealer that offers me $21500 US dollars(inculding tax) for the XRS with auto. Is that OK? It comes with sunroof (no 17") and all other options except security alarm. Is there any TRD store in Canada and US? Do they make any upgrades for Matrix?
I have a 2002 Jetta, and VW does not do the free maintenance deal anymore. They did extend their basic warranty from the substandard 2/24K to 4/50K now though. I would rather have more warranty than the free service though.
Toyota does not offer any free oil changes as far as I know, at least here in Canada. I purchased ECP (Extra Care Protection) which covers the first 3 services as a bonus, but we do not have any free maintenance plans normally. It also boosts the basic warranty from 3yr/60k to 4yr/100k.
I can't really help you on pricing either as we are in Canadian dollars (my XRS retails @ $24,990cdn). Did you check out the "What did you pay" section?
The TRD site in the US is http://www.trdusa.com/ . They make lowering springs, mufflers, clutch sets etc for the Matrix. Also companies like Injen make CAI (Cold Air Intakes). I am not big into the "tuner" scene but I am sure there are lots of people that can help you...
Any hopes of any TRD equipment for the base Matrix to give it more power? Just wondering. I test drove one awhile back, and really liked it except that it lacked overall power. Thanks.
I'm about to buy a Matrix XRS 6-speed in white. Can anyone who has the NAV system give me a detailed review? I've heard complaints about the joystick and the fact that the radio is hard to work with it while driving.
The ONLY reason I'm considering the NAV is because I have to find addresses all day and I'm a menace on the road with a Thomas Guide map. Would this make me safer on the road, or will it have me fumbling with the radio. I want to keep my eyes on the road and hope the NAV might help me. Will it? Is it worth the dough?
This is my first experience with a NAV system in a car, and the one in the Matrix seems to do the job well. The best feature is the DVD disk, which holds map data for the entire US and Canada (so no need to switch disks all the time). The only drawback is the data input "joystick", which can take some time getting used to (it's fairly sensitive). A touch-screen is not used. Other than that, the guidance features are very good, including the voice guidance system (featuring a pleasant-sounding woman's voice). However, as with any NAV system, it is safest to input data while the car is parked, and the manual gives plenty of warnings against doing it while driving. So it could take a while to get used to all the features the system provides. Planning and preparation are still essential, and the NAV system is not meant for "spontaneous" routing while driving. In Japan, where NAV systems are more prevalent, the use of NAV systems while driving has been linked to increased rates of accidents (similar to cell-phone use). So it must be used with caution. That being said, the NAV system in the Matrix seems like an excellent value for the money.
I finally had a chance to compare these 3 back to back. Before the test drives, I checked the tire pressure to make sure it was correct. Here's my evaluation (note that I've only included a few things). All had adequate power for normal driving, IMHO.
Civic LX with auto HIGHS: Well weighted steering, a "connected to the road feeling", really fun to drive. Good view over the hood. Minimal engine or wind noise. Good driver's armrest. Simple, no-nonsense pricing (LX,EX etc). LOWS: Lots of road noise spoils the fun! Ride can be bumpy. Same old styling and color selection (would it hurt if they added just a little more pizzazz?)
Corolla LE with auto HIGHS: Looks and feels expensive, roomy rear seat, higher seating, outside temperature gauge, better color selection than Civic. LOWS: Steering felt very light (I could fall asleep at the wheel), sometimes floaty ride, more wind/engine noise than Civic, higher dashboard than Civic. Useless armrest. Not so simple pricing, lots of "options" but not as bad as Matrix (in this regard).
Matrix XR with auto HIGHS: High seating position (one just slides into the seat), good view over dashboard, better steering feel than Corolla but not as good as Civic, better ride than Corolla (Matrix less floaty) or Civic (Matrix less bumpy). Very roomy seating and great flexibility for carrying cargo/people. Reasonable color selection. LOWS: Instruments/gauges overdesigned at the expense of ergonomics(Pontiac/Toyota were trying too hard to make them look cool). Monotonous black/gray interior, a lighter contrast color would give it an airier feeling, IMHO. Useless armrest. Wind noise same as Corolla, and more than Civic. No folding mirrors for a vehicle that's almost 70" wide. Absurd looking mandatory "optional" ground effects. Even more absurd and overly complicated pricing with lots of options.
For my needs, the Matrix offered the best balance between driving fun and functionality. Unfortunately, Toyota has ruined the Matrix's appeal and styling with its absurd "options". I've heard that Honda will be out with the Stream/Latitude next year, and that may end up being the vehicle I finally buy.
I think that it is easier to order a Vibe the way you want it than ordering a Matrix. I have been told that it takes 4-6 weeks to get a Vibe after the order has been placed.
I haven't looked at a Vibe. It's made at the GM NUMMI factory, so I am not as keen on it as the Matrix.
Toyota is tightly controlling different option availability on the Matrix. You can get ABS on a 2WD Matrix XR in the Southeast, where it doesn't snow or ice very often, but not here in Boston. You have to buy the XRS to get ABS here. I'll probably get mine in Baltimore, MD.
I've had dealerships tell me that they can order, but don't always get it.
http://www.nummi.com check it out. It is not a GM plant, it is a joint venture between Toyota and GM with Toyota getting the vast majority of production. Same parts as the Matrix. And with the $1,000 rebate available, may even cost less then Matrix. If you can find/order the options you want, maybe you should look at it. Either way, good luck.
Well I too have the same bubble on both front side windows. Passenger side has been replaced and driver side on back order. I also had a problem with the center storage under the shifter always popping open, it too is on back order but all is being replaced under warranty. Other then that I'm up to 16,000km and I'm as happy as can be with my Matrix. There will always be something little to whine about but hey you buy a car for the complete package not HP or Acceleration or a spoiler, etc etc.
P.S. I've seen a million people post, o.k. maybe 10 asking if there are any TRD accesories to boost up the Matrix base or XR. I too am curious and it looks like no for now.
Well I know squat about your waxing question or the timing buelt so I'll move on to the windows...lol
O.K. All it is is the weather stripping that the window goes up in. I first noticed a small bubble, think of a worm scrunched up ready to move on the top part of the window.
1. When can I wax my car?? I heard somewhere that I have to wait at least 2 months before I can wax a new car. Is this true??
**My dealer told me the new base/clear coat style paints can be waxed the day you pick it up at the dealership. Make sure you use a good quality wax, preferrably with a 3 step system (ie clean, polish, wax).
2. Timing belt on the Matrix XR. Is it plastic or metal??
**Both the VVT-i (130hp base and XR) and the VVTL-i (180hp XRS) use a low mass timing chain NOT a belt.
3. What is the problem with bubble on Leafguy2727's front windows?? Are you talking about the plastic seal around the door?
**already answered
Don't be hoping for winter yet!...it is too early brrrr
There are some accessories available for the VVT-i engine, check out httt://www.matrixowners.com and there are several forums talking about exhaust, Cold air intakes, etc. There is even one guying doing a turbo package on his XR but he is running into some hold ups and he is not done yet!
I actually have the XRS...I know my name doesn't reflect it but I was going to order an XR until the prices came out and I found XRS was still very reasonable! Before pricing structure I asked the dealer what he though an XRS would retail at and thought just under 30k. I think this is one hell of an autombile for 24k canadian $$. I drove a $46,000 Highlander limited last week and preferred my Matrix in the FTD (Fun TO Drive) category and I could have 2 of them at that price!
But hey you know what opinions are like and everyone has one...
Comments
I'll be testing this week sometime.
Thanks for the info.
I haven't tried to fit bikes but be careful about scratching the plastic in the back. They will be coming out with a rubber cargo mat if they haven't already and that will help.
I currently have a 180hp 1.8T Jetta automatic, and I test drove the Matrix for the heck of it, a couple months ago. It was an XR automatic (no XRS models available to test back then). It was pitifully slow to me, alot more so than my Jetta is. I was surprised how slow the car was. It felt like a Celica, but a little less powerful. It was a pretty nice ride though.
Also, the matrix horsepower is actually higher than the 80's and early 90's 4Runner 4-cylinder, and only about 10% lower hp than the '96 on.
2014 Mini Cooper (stick shift of course), 2016 Camry hybrid, 2009 Outback Sport 5-spd (keeping the stick alive)
And why I chose my car: I do animal rescue, so I'm thrilled *not* to have carpet in the cargo area. I'll deal with slip and slide with a gripper mat where needed. My current car has cat pee smells in the carpet, so I hate carpet - in cars or my house!
I also really like the flat layout of the cargo area, versus the slight raised portions in the Mazda Protege5, and that the Matrix front seat folds down. And rear cup holders for my 8 yr old daughter are very important to her.
My profile would be one posted earlier in this forum - a car for errand running, cargo hauling, plus kid and pet friendly. I'm not a youngster, so the sounds and speed mean nothing to me, although the moonroof and Nav system are real important. I map everything on the computer, and will use it in my car as well. Dear husband is one who hates to ask directions, so this will help him too! ;-)
I sign the papers tomorrow...I'll be happy to have the car by Christmas.
Carrie
CJLOFTUS.. have you tried "OUT" oder remover and/or a steam cleaner, like a Little Green machine???
Interested in a Toyota Matrix XRS. I went to my local dealer to be told the XRS has been discontinued. A second dealer confirmed it. This must be the single stupidest move Toyota could have made. If I were to purchase a Matrix XR model and tack on all the extras, it would still cost me as much as, or even more than, the XRS, and I'd have 50 less horsepower and no four-wheel disc brakes. Please warn others.
Do you think that this is true or this person might have misunderstood a salesman at both dealerships?
Thanks for the tips.
BTW I don't think the XRS is a waste of money. If you take an XR and add a bunch of options it comes out almost the same price as the XRS so why not go for the bigger engine?
By the way the XRS is not discontinued...In fact my dealer told me the demand is still very high for them...
Throw in extras like 4 wheel discs brakes, 4 wheel ABS, 17" vs 16" wheels, a security system, 110 volt on the dash, upgraded stereo, full aero package, driving lights, etc. etc. and I (and countless others) feel the XRS is well worth the couple of extra bucks a month...it does cost more...but it also delivers more. The XRS with the Celica GTS drivetrain also retails for almost $10,000 less than the Celica GTS. When I tell people how the vehicle retails @ $25k (canadian), they are very impresssed. Many have guessed well over $30k (canadian) for that much performance in such a versatile wrapper AND with a Toyota name on it. I have no regrets whatsoever in getting the XRS over the XR.
Now, that low contrast odometer and temp display, that's another matter..!!
The XR has a height adjustable seat, which is what we bought for that reason due to the big difference in height between my wife and I. It is manually adjustable however, and isn't something I'd want to do 2 or 3 times per day. An optional power seat would be nice, but....
thanks!
XR
celica
I have never heard of a lot of noise in the automatic xrs. I have a 6spd XRS. Good luck with your purchase of an XRS...let us know how that goes...
I can't really help you on pricing either as we are in Canadian dollars (my XRS retails @ $24,990cdn). Did you check out the "What did you pay" section?
The TRD site in the US is http://www.trdusa.com/ . They make lowering springs, mufflers, clutch sets etc for the Matrix. Also companies like Injen make CAI (Cold Air Intakes). I am not big into the "tuner" scene but I am sure there are lots of people that can help you...
(Owner's manual does not say.)
1matrix
The ONLY reason I'm considering the NAV is because I have to find addresses all day and I'm a menace on the road with a Thomas Guide map. Would this make me safer on the road, or will it have me fumbling with the radio. I want to keep my eyes on the road and hope the NAV might help me. Will it? Is it worth the dough?
Dave
However, as with any NAV system, it is safest to input data while the car is parked, and the manual gives plenty of warnings against doing it while driving. So it could take a while to get used to all the features the system provides. Planning and preparation are still essential, and the NAV system is not meant for "spontaneous" routing while driving.
In Japan, where NAV systems are more prevalent, the use of NAV systems while driving has been linked to increased rates of accidents (similar to cell-phone use). So it must be used with caution.
That being said, the NAV system in the Matrix seems like an excellent value for the money.
1matrix
Civic LX with auto
HIGHS: Well weighted steering, a "connected to the road feeling", really fun to drive. Good view over the hood. Minimal engine or wind noise. Good driver's armrest. Simple, no-nonsense pricing (LX,EX etc).
LOWS: Lots of road noise spoils the fun! Ride can be bumpy. Same old styling and color selection (would it hurt if they added just a little more pizzazz?)
Corolla LE with auto
HIGHS: Looks and feels expensive, roomy rear seat, higher seating, outside temperature gauge, better color selection than Civic.
LOWS: Steering felt very light (I could fall asleep at the wheel), sometimes floaty ride, more wind/engine noise than Civic, higher dashboard than Civic. Useless armrest. Not so simple pricing, lots of "options" but not as bad as Matrix (in this regard).
Matrix XR with auto
HIGHS: High seating position (one just slides into the seat), good view over dashboard, better steering feel than Corolla but not as good as Civic, better ride than Corolla (Matrix less floaty) or Civic (Matrix less bumpy). Very roomy seating and great flexibility for carrying cargo/people. Reasonable color selection.
LOWS: Instruments/gauges overdesigned at the expense of ergonomics(Pontiac/Toyota were trying too hard to make them look cool). Monotonous black/gray interior, a lighter contrast color would give it an airier feeling, IMHO. Useless armrest. Wind noise same as Corolla, and more than Civic. No folding mirrors for a vehicle that's almost 70" wide. Absurd looking mandatory "optional" ground effects. Even more absurd and overly complicated pricing with lots of options.
For my needs, the Matrix offered the best balance between driving fun and functionality. Unfortunately, Toyota has ruined the Matrix's appeal and styling with its absurd "options". I've heard that Honda will be out with the Stream/Latitude next year, and that may end up being the vehicle I finally buy.
I haven't looked at a Vibe. It's made at the GM NUMMI factory, so I am not as keen on it as the Matrix.
Toyota is tightly controlling different option availability on the Matrix. You can get ABS on a 2WD Matrix XR in the Southeast, where it doesn't snow or ice very often, but not here in Boston. You have to buy the XRS to get ABS here. I'll probably get mine in Baltimore, MD.
I've had dealerships tell me that they can order, but don't always get it.
You pays your money and you takes your chances.
Well I too have the same bubble on both front side windows. Passenger side has been replaced and driver side on back order. I also had a problem with the center storage under the shifter always popping open, it too is on back order but all is being replaced under warranty. Other then that I'm up to 16,000km and I'm as happy as can be with my Matrix. There will always be something little to whine about but hey you buy a car for the complete package not HP or Acceleration or a spoiler, etc etc.
P.S. I've seen a million people post, o.k. maybe 10 asking if there are any TRD accesories to boost up the Matrix base or XR. I too am curious and it looks like no for now.
I have my 4WD Matrix XR for about 2 months now. It has about 3,500 miles. I have the following questions for you:
1. When can I wax my car?? I heard somewhere that I have to wait at least 2 months before I can wax a new car. Is this true??
2. Timing belt on the Matrix XR. Is it plastic or metal??
3. What is the problem with bubble on Leafguy2727's front windows?? Are you talking about the plastic seal around the door?
So far I really enjoy my car I wish winter is here so I can test my 4WD system.
Thanks in advance for the helps.
O.K. All it is is the weather stripping that the window goes up in. I first noticed a small bubble, think of a worm scrunched up ready to move on the top part of the window.
**My dealer told me the new base/clear coat style paints can be waxed the day you pick it up at the dealership. Make sure you use a good quality wax, preferrably with a 3 step system (ie clean, polish, wax).
2. Timing belt on the Matrix XR. Is it plastic or metal??
**Both the VVT-i (130hp base and XR) and the VVTL-i (180hp XRS) use a low mass timing chain NOT a belt.
3. What is the problem with bubble on Leafguy2727's front windows?? Are you talking about the plastic seal around the door?
**already answered
Don't be hoping for winter yet!...it is too early brrrr
XRS Matrix 6spd with 8200km
There are some accessories available for the VVT-i engine, check out httt://www.matrixowners.com and there are several forums talking about exhaust, Cold air intakes, etc. There is even one guying doing a turbo package on his XR but he is running into some hold ups and he is not done yet!
I actually have the XRS...I know my name doesn't reflect it but I was going to order an XR until the prices came out and I found XRS was still very reasonable! Before pricing structure I asked the dealer what he though an XRS would retail at and thought just under 30k. I think this is one hell of an autombile for 24k canadian $$. I drove a $46,000 Highlander limited last week and preferred my Matrix in the FTD (Fun TO Drive) category and I could have 2 of them at that price!
But hey you know what opinions are like and everyone has one...
GO LEAFS...cup potential this year for sure!